Solids Solutions: specialist in solids and powders

In the world of materials, chemistry and process technology, the processing of solids and powders plays an essential role. Delft Solids Solutions is a leading Contract Research Organisation (CRO) that specialises in the physical characterisation and processing of solids (in the form of powders and granules). Whether it concerns improving powder flows, determining particle size or optimising process steps, this company offers a wide range of services for industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, building materials and more. 

In this article, we take a look at what Solids Solutions does exactly, with a special focus on mixing solids and grinding powder.

Who is Solids Solutions?

Delft Solids Solutions was founded in 2002 as a spin-off from Delft University of Technology, together with the Department of Chemical Engineering. Since then, the company has become independent and has an international reputation. 

The specialisation focuses primarily on:

• Particle and powder technology: powder processing, particle size, particle shape, surface area, porosity. 
• Analysis of bulk solids and granulates. 
• Consultancy, research & development, test setups, modification or development of equipment. 
• Education: courses, seminars, knowledge centre. 

Mixing of solids

An important process in many industries is mixing solids. This occurs when two or more solid components – granules, powders or solid particles – need to be combined homogeneously. Good mixing is crucial: if mixing is not done properly, product properties can vary, zones with overrepresentation of one component can arise, or contaminants and inconsistencies can be introduced.

Delft Solids Solutions plays a role in this by researching how solids behave during mixing processes. Examples of what they study:

• Particle size and shape: these determine how well substances mix, or whether segregation occurs. 
• Bulk flows and flow of solids: how do solid particles move in a mixer, in a transport pipe or in storage? 
• Methods to optimise mixing: design of mixers, use of vibrations, varying speeds, etc.

In short: the ability to properly manage the mixing of solids is a core part of Solids Solutions’ services. In this way, they help their clients to improve consistency, quality and efficiency in production processes.

Milling powder 

In addition to mixing, milling powder is also an essential process. Milling means reducing solids to finer particles so that they meet specific requirements in terms of particle size distribution, surface area per mass, dissolution rate or processability. Finer powders can have different properties: greater surface area, higher reactivity, improved flow, etc.

Delft Solids Solutions also conducts research and provides advice in the field of milling powder. This includes:

• Characterisation of powders before and after grinding: how do particle size, particle shape, surface area, porosity, etc. change? 
• Selection of grinding equipment: what type of mill (e.g. ball mill, bead mill, air mill), what energy is required, how temperature or heat development is controlled.
• Influences on product quality: fineness can have positive but also negative effects (such as fine dust problems, aggregation, static charge, moisture content).
• Process optimisation: minimising energy costs, wear and tear, and ensuring consistent grinding.

Applications & added value

What makes Delft Solids Solutions special? And when is their expertise crucial?

• Industrial sectors: pharmaceuticals, food, building materials, chemicals. In all these sectors, both the mixing of solids and the grinding of powder are crucial. 
• Problem solving & innovation: if a manufacturer encounters problems (e.g. poor powder flow, uneven mixing, particles that are too coarse or too fine), DSS can investigate the cause and provide advice for improvement.
• Quality and compliance: in some applications (medical, pharmaceutical, food), standards and certifications are required; good characterisation is therefore essential. DSS works under ISO-17025 guidelines.